Or click here to subscribe to our weekly digital edition. Your details will be stored to support your experience in line with our privacy policy.

DEMOLITION has begun on a former sheltered housing site in Havering, to turn it into a ‘modern retirement village’.

The
land in South Hornchurch formerly housed the Solar, Serena and
Sunrise Courts sheltered housing complexes.

But
the buildings are now being knocked down in order to build 172 ‘high
quality apartments’, which will be ‘designated to full meet the
needs’ of retired people.

The
development is part of the first phase of Havering Council’s
£1billion ’12 Estates’ project – a joint venture with
developer Wates Residential to deliver roughly 5,000 homes in the
next 15 years.

Phase
One also includes the demolition of Napier and New Plymouth House in
Rainham and the regeneration of the Waterloo estate in Romford.

The
authority said it would double the number of council-rented
properties in the borough and also double the number of ‘affordable’
homes.

It
has also promised the scheme will include ‘legacy’ developments,
including health and leisure facilities.

The
new retirement homes in South Hornchurch will include communal
residents’ lounges, treatment studios and a village hall. Outdoor
facilities will include an extended garden with lawn games and an
allotment.

Tory
council leader Damian White said: “This new retirement village will
create a safe haven for our older and more vulnerable residents,
whilst ensuring they can live full and independent lives.

“With
an ever-ageing population, it is vital that our borough-wide
regeneration creates homes that meet the needs of the local
community.

“The wider project will deliver a wealth of new homes across the borough, from specialise retirement homes to much-needed family housing for local people.”